Dentist PRN

About the role

The Dentist will provide comprehensive dental care to patients in a correctional healthcare setting, including routine examinations, preventive treatments, and the diagnosis and treatment of dental conditions. This role will ensure high-quality care, maintain patient records, and comply with healthcare regulations and safety standards. The Dentist will also collaborate with other healthcare providers to support the overall health and well-being of the patient population.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality, evidence-based dental care to inmates, including routine dental exams, diagnosis, and treatment of dental conditions, such as cavities, gum disease, oral infections, and other dental issues.
• Conduct preventative dental services, including cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and patient education on oral hygiene, diet, and self-care to improve dental health and prevent future oral health problems.
• Respond to and manage dental emergencies, such as tooth pain, abscesses, trauma, and infections, providing timely and appropriate care to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.
• Perform minor oral surgical procedures as needed, including tooth extractions, biopsies, and treatment of oral soft tissue lesions.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans for inmates based on thorough oral health assessments and diagnoses.
• Ensure that treatment plans are appropriate, effective, and consistent with evidence-based guidelines.
• Provide restorative treatments, including fillings, crowns, and bridges, to restore the functionality and appearance of patients' teeth.
• Take and interpret dental radiographs (X-rays) to assess dental conditions, diagnose problems, and guide treatment decisions.
• Provide education and counseling to inmates on oral health, disease prevention, and the importance of good oral hygiene. Encourage patients to adhere to post-treatment care instructions.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including medical providers, nurses, and mental health professionals, to ensure comprehensive care, especially for inmates with complex health needs or those with mental health conditions affecting oral care.
• Maintain patient records and documentation accurately, documenting patient interactions, assessments, diagnoses, treatments, and procedures in accordance with facility protocols, HIPAA regulations, and legal requirements. Ensure documentation is thorough, timely, and compliant.
• Participate in continuous quality improvement (CQI) efforts to improve patient care and outcomes. Ensure compliance with all state, federal, and local regulations, as well as facility-specific policies regarding safety, infection control, and operational procedures.
• Adhere to stringent infection control protocols to ensure a clean and safe environment for both patients and dental staff. Properly sterilize dental instruments and maintain the cleanliness of the dental operatory.
• Perform dental health screenings upon intake and as part of routine exams to identify urgent dental issues and develop care plans based on individual needs.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to dental support staff, such as dental hygienists and assistants, to ensure the provision of high-quality care and the effective operation of the dental clinic.
• Provide on-call services as needed, including after-hours care for dental emergencies, to ensure that patients receive timely treatment.
• Maintain effective communication with correctional officers and facility leadership to ensure patient safety and that all procedures are conducted in compliance with security protocols.
• Uphold the highest standards of medical ethics, maintaining patient confidentiality, and ensuring informed consent processes are followed in all patient interactions.

Requirements

• A current, valid, and unrestricted state license.
• For advanced clinical roles, completion of an accredited graduate or professional program (e.g., medical school, dental school, nurse practitioner program, etc.) is required.
• A current, valid DEA registration, if applicable.
• Board certification in a relevant specialty is preferred, if applicable.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of clinical practice, with at least 1-2 years in a correctional healthcare or underserved population setting preferred.
• Experience in diagnosis, treatment planning, and providing healthcare services in a managed care or correctional facility setting is highly preferred.
• Active CPR/BLS certificate required (American Heart Association/American Red Cross guideline approved).

Qualifications

• Current, valid, and unrestricted state license.
• Completion of an accredited graduate or professional program (e.g., medical school, dental school, nurse practitioner program, etc.), if applicable.
• Board certification in a relevant specialty, if applicable.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of clinical practice, with at least 1-2 years in a correctional healthcare or underserved population setting.
• Experience in diagnosis, treatment planning, and providing healthcare services in a correctional facility setting.
• Active CPR/BLS certificate.

Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of dental procedures and techniques.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
• Knowledge of infection control and safety protocols.
• Ability to handle stressful situations and emergencies.
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Benefits

MEDIKO offers competitive compensation, commitment to safety, and exposure to diverse healthcare needs. Employees also have access to professional development opportunities, a supportive work culture, and a positive impact on the communities they serve.

Pay

Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Schedule

This position is available as needed/available.